The 2027 Nissan Z NISMO is giving driving enthusiasts something they had been waiting for: a six-speed manual transmission in the most focused version of Nissan’s two-seat sports car. The updated model is expected to arrive in summer 2026, with pricing to be announced closer to launch.
A manual transmission changes the Z NISMO story
The biggest update is the new short-shift six-speed manual transmission. Nissan says the Z NISMO also receives twin-turbo V6 tuning, refined steering, enhanced suspension, and retuned Active Sound Enhancement.
This matters because the Z NISMO was previously criticized by some enthusiasts for being automatic-only. Now, Nissan is giving buyers a more traditional sports-car experience, especially for drivers who value control and engagement on road or track.
What is known about performance
The 2027 Z NISMO keeps a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6. According to Car and Driver, it produces 420 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, while other Z trims make 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft.
The manual version was not a simple parts swap. The NISMO’s higher output required stronger transmission mounts, a high-capacity clutch pressure plate, shorter shifter action, and specific throttle and ignition tuning.
Track-focused upgrades go beyond the gearbox
The 2027 Nissan Z NISMO also receives GT-R-derived front brake rotors. Car and Driver reports that the two-piece iron and aluminum front rotors are 15 inches and save a combined 19 pounds compared with the previous setup.
Nissan also revised the fuel tank design across the 2027 Z lineup to help maintain consistent fuel delivery during high-G cornering. That change is important for track use, where fuel movement can affect engine performance under hard driving.
The NISMO model also uses wider rear tires than the Z Performance. Car and Driver noted 285/35R-19 rear tires for the NISMO, compared with 275-section rear tires on the Performance trim.
Design and technology updates
The broader 2027 Nissan Z lineup also gets a visual refresh. Nissan says Z Sport and Z Performance trims receive a restyled front bumper and grille inspired by classic Nissan sports cars, with shaping designed to improve cooling and reduce aerodynamic lift and drag.
Inside, Z Performance and NISMO models add a Qi2 wireless device charger with magnetic alignment and a cooling fan. This is a small but useful tech upgrade for daily use, especially as modern phones become central to navigation and connectivity.
What This Means for Drivers
The 2027 Nissan Z NISMO is not trying to become a luxury grand tourer or an electric performance car. Instead, it leans into a classic formula: rear-wheel drive, a powerful twin-turbo engine, two seats, track-ready hardware, and now a manual gearbox.
Official pricing has not been fully announced yet. However, Car and Driver noted that the 2026 Z NISMO started at $67,045, which gives buyers a useful reference point while waiting for final 2027 pricing.
For drivers who still want an analog sports car experience, this update makes the Z NISMO more compelling. It also helps Nissan stand out in a market where manual, rear-drive performance coupes are becoming harder to find.
